We build self-respect, community and independent voices for young people through the sharing of stories.
We do this through 10 week long storytelling programmes in schools and youth centres in which young people have fun, develop their ideas and build their confidence. At the end of each project, young people don’t just share our belief that they are storytellers, they have in their hands the means to prove it – a published book that tells their story to the world.
About us
Our work
A short introductory video to our programmes filmed by Benoit Grogan-Avignon.
The Need for Our Work
37% of the young people in Barking and Dagenham live in poverty.
Barking and Dagenham is the 9th most deprived local authority in the country.
Barking and Dagenham has the second highest rate of unemployment in London and the lowest entry rate into higher education.
30% of young people feel optimistic ‘rarely’ or ‘none of the time.’
In the current ‘exam culture’, schools have less time to explore the experiences and writing of young people.
“I’m so in love with the creativity, ideas and stories of young people - and can’t wait to hear more from the young writers of Barking and Dagenham. More of their voices need to be heard.”
“Telling stories through song has taken me from the streets of Barking to concert halls all over the world. The creative writing nurtured by Write Back is a great way to build self-confidence and generate the affirmation that is crucial to young people making the transition to adulthood.”
